With Roman ruins at the base on the hill and a striking medieval town perched on its summit, Vaison-la-Romaine is a fascinating Provençal community for those interested in history. Well-placed for exploring the region, the town offers a range of design-led B&Bs and heritage hotels, fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Small and often family-run, our pick of the best places to stay in Vaison-la-Romaine includes some very special spots.
History buffs will delight in discovering almost 15 hectares of Roman ruins. Part of what was once the prosperous city of Vasio, archeological remains sprawl across two areas: Puymin and La Villasse. See evidence of substantial houses, a colonnaded marketplace, a public bathhouse, paved streets and an irrigation system as you navigate the site. The archaeological museum is fantastic, whist keen historians can also visit the Roman bridge — one of five in Provence — and the theatre, which once sat up to 6,000 people. There are further Roman-era sites in nearby Orange.
Head uphill to see the medieval part of Vaison-la-Romaine, crowned by a ruined castle built in 1195 by the Counts of Toulouse. This part of town boasts a thriving weekly market, an array of art galleries and frequent exhibitions. Active types can hike and horse ride in the surrounding countryside, or tackle Mont Ventoux — the Tour de France’s ‘Beast of Provence’ — on two wheels. Winter events include black truffle hunts, cooking classes and expert-led tastings. A local specialty, these can also be savoured at some of the best places to stay in Vaison-la-Romaine.
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Vaison La Romaine (Vaison la Romaine)
This vibrant hotel lies in a picturesque village (known for being home to a number of artists) just a short distance from Avignon. Rooms are a blend of contemporary and modern design with abstract paintings, tiled floors, warm hues and sash windows. A little gem lying off the beaten track.
Vaison La Romaine (84190 Gigondas)
A charming family-run hotel set amid vineyards, lush gardens and century-old trees. Rooms are elegant and light. Excellent local cuisine is served on a shaded terrace with wine from the hotel vineyard. Lounge by the pool and enjoy the panoramic views. The ideal Provence property.
Vaison La Romaine (Provence)
A charming hotel in the centre of town. Rooms and studios are simply decorated, some with exposed beams & sloping ceilings, others come with a whirlpool tub or kitchenette. The restaurant serves Provencal cuisine and there's a pool and terrace for chilling. Ideal for explorers on a budget.
Vaison La Romaine (Provence)
A stylish B+B in a charming Provencal farmhouse. Rooms feature contemporary decor and modern bathrooms, with splashes of bold, fluorescent colours to contrast the parquet flooring and stone walls. Relax by the pool in this pretty setting, or explore the historic town close by. Utterly dreamy.
Vaison La Romaine (Provence)
A chic little restaurant & bistro with rooms in the centre of town. Four individually designed rooms offer cosy little havens with plenty of original features complemented by modern amenities. La Barjaca serves tapas style Provencal dishes or there's the bistro for supper with a view. Lovely!
Vaison La Romaine (Cité Médiévale)
A traditional hotel in a beautiful medieval hill town. Wooden beams, exposed stone and traditional fabrics feature throughout the property. An outdoor pool takes full advantage of the rural views. The food is regional and the wine from the local Cotes du Rhone valley. An ideal spot.
Vaison La Romaine (Provence)
A pretty B+B near the village of Séguret and its vineyards. Five boutique rooms feature vintage style-furniture, pretty fabrics and window shutters. There's a lovely pool for lazy days, breakfast is included and table d'hote meals can be prepared. Ideal base for exploring Cotes du Rhone wine route.
